BATSMAN Usman Khawaja is working with Cricket Australia to ensure more South Asian representation in his adopted country's cricketing ecosystem, about a decade after becoming the first muslim cricketer to wear the baggy green.
When he made his international debut at the SCG, his home ground, in an Ashes Test in 2011, the top-order batter became the first muslim and the first player of Pakistan descent to represent Australia.
Khawaja has often spoken about the challenges he has faced in his quest to play top-level cricket in Australia.
"It is a lot better now," Khawaja was quoted as saying in ESPNcricinfo.
"I see a lot more cricketers coming up through state levels in Australia in particular that are from subcontinent backgrounds, which we really did not see when I came up, even when I played.
"I was playing domestic cricket and I was the only subcontinent player there. At the moment there's only probably myself and a few others."
The 34-year-old Khawaja, who has scored close to 3000 runs in 44 Tests and more than 1500 runs in 40 ODIs for an average of over 40 in both formats, cited England team as an example of diversity that Australia can take a cue from.
The ODI team is led by an Irish Eoin Morgan, lead pacer Jofra Archer is from Barbados while Moeen Ali and Adil Rashid are British Asians of Pakistan descent. Ben Stokes is a New Zealander by birth.
"We're still a long way to go and I look at the England team and see the diversity they've had for a long time. They are an older nation than us, but I can see that diversity and think that's probably where Australia need to reach.
"We have definitely got better from when I was younger, but it's a generational shift too."
Khawaja, who was born in Islamabad, moved to Australia with his family when he was five.
"When I started being more involved in cricket, people with subcontinent heritage in Australia came up to me and said, 'we're so happy to see you at the top. Seeing someone like you, we feel we've got a part in the Australian team, and we support the Australian team. We didn't do it before, and we do it now'," said Khawaja.
The teaser offers the first look at Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Ram and Yash as Ravan.
Directed by Nitesh Tiwari, Ramayana will release in two parts during Diwali 2026 and 2027.
The film features music by Hans Zimmer and AR Rahman and action by Hollywood stunt legends.
With a reported budget of £78 million (₹835 crore), it’s the most expensive Indian film to date.
The much-awaited teaser for Ramayana, starring Ranbir Kapoor as Ram and Yash as Ravan, is finally out, though viewers will have to wait longer to see actual scenes from the film. Directed by Nitesh Tiwari, the teaser opts for a stylised introduction to the mythological world rather than full footage, with only fleeting glimpses of the lead characters revealed at the very end.
Ramayana teaser out featuring Ranbir Kapoor and YashYoutube Screengrab
A grand reveal without footage
The nearly three-minute teaser introduces the film’s mythological backdrop, tracing the cosmic balance maintained by Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva. It culminates in the visual build-up of the Ram-Ravan conflict, described as “the war to end all wars.” Viewers get a few seconds of Ranbir as Ram and Yash as Ravan, but no narrative footage yet.
Fans noticed the teaser’s stylistic similarity to the Game of Thrones title credits, with scrolling names and grandeur, rather than traditional scene previews. The glimpse was launched across multiple Indian cities and even showcased at Times Square, clearly indicating the producers’ international ambitions for the film.
With a budget of £78 million (₹835 crore), Ramayana is now the costliest Indian film ever made, surpassing Kalki 2898 AD and Adipurush. Alongside Ranbir and Yash, the film stars Sai Pallavi as Sita, Sunny Deol as Hanuman, and Ravie Dubey as Lakshman.
Yash, also co-producing the film, recently said Ravan was the only character he would have agreed to play in a mythological story. “There’s vast scope to present him in a very different way,” he shared in a media interaction.
Adding to the project’s scale are composers Hans Zimmer and AR Rahman, scoring the film together. Zimmer, known for Inception and Interstellar, brings global texture to the soundtrack, along with Rahman’s spiritual depth.
Stunt choreography will be led by Terry Notary (Avatar) and Guy Norris (Mad Max: Fury Road), promising action battle sequences grounded in emotion.
Yash in discussion with stunt director Guy Norris during Ramayana shoot Twitter/@SumitkadeI
Two-part release set for Diwali 2026 and 2027
The film will be released in two parts, with the first instalment expected to hit cinemas during Diwali 2026 and the second in 2027. Touted as “Our Truth, Our Story,” Ramayana aims to retell the ancient epic with visual grandeur while staying rooted in its moral and cultural legacy.
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The match was completed under the roof on Court Number One
Taylor Fritz beat Gabriel Diallo 3-6, 6-3, 7-6(0), 4-6, 6-3.
The match lasted over three hours.
It was completed under the roof on Court One as other matches were suspended.
Fritz also played a five-setter in the first round.
American fifth seed Taylor Fritz battled past Canadian Gabriel Diallo in a five-set thriller to reach the third round of Wimbledon. Fritz won 3-6, 6-3, 7-6(0), 4-6, 6-3 in a contest that lasted over three hours. The match was completed under the roof on Court Number One, with play suspended on other courts for the night. Fritz had also been taken to five sets in the first round and once again showed grit to advance. The late-night win ensures the world number five remains in contention after a tough opening week at the All England Club.
If you’re a Kiwi looking to launch your own business, there’s never been a better time to do it. New Zealand offers a great environment for small businesses, thanks to its stable economy, government support for entrepreneurs, and high quality of life. From agriculture to tech and creative industries, opportunities exist across a wide range of sectors.
When choosing what kind of business to start, it's important to look at local demand, industry growth, and your personal interests. Below are some of the best business ideas that can thrive in the New Zealand market today.
1. Eco-Friendly Tourism
Tourism continues to be a major part of New Zealand’s economy, bringing in billions each year. With the country known for its scenic beauty and outdoor adventures, eco-conscious tourism is quickly gaining popularity. Travelers now want more than just a vacation since most of them are looking for experiences that are kind to the planet.
If you have a passion for the outdoors, consider offering environmentally friendly tourism options. Guided hiking trips, nature photography tours, or cultural experiences that involve conservation education can be very appealing. Collaborating with local environmental or cultural groups can add credibility and enhance the visitor experience.
2. Agritech Innovation
Farming is deeply rooted in New Zealand’s way of life, and there's growing interest in using technology to make agriculture more efficient and sustainable. Agritech businesses that offer tools or services to help farmers increase yields, reduce costs, or protect the environment are in high demand.
For example, smart irrigation systems, pest detection technologies, and soil monitoring tools are just a few areas where Kiwi farmers are looking for solutions. If you understand local farming conditions and can develop tech that’s affordable and practical, your business could see significant growth.
3. Digital Marketing Services
With most Kiwis spending a good portion of their time online, businesses are shifting focus to digital platforms. Yet, many small to medium-sized businesses struggle to keep up with digital trends or maintain a strong online presence.
That’s where you could come in. Starting a digital marketing service that caters to local businesses can be a great move. Offering support in areas like social media, content creation, search engine optimization (SEO), and paid advertising can help clients stand out online. Make sure to tailor your services to reflect New Zealand’s unique market needs, such as promoting tourism, local products, or export services.
4. Online Gambling and Digital Entertainment
As New Zealand embraces digital technology, online entertainment has taken off, particularly in the gambling space. Although local companies can’t operate online casinos in New Zealand, Kiwis are legally allowed to play on international gambling platforms. This has sparked a surge in interest in online casinos, offering a diverse range of games, from poker to live dealer options.
For entrepreneurs, this growing trend opens up related business opportunities. You could create a blog that reviews trusted casino sites, provides player guides, or becomes an affiliate marketer promoting responsible gambling. By focusing on user experience and legal compliance, you can build a business that supports Kiwis in navigating this digital pastime wisely.
5. Specialty Food Production
Health-focused and sustainable food choices are on the rise, both locally and globally. In New Zealand, the market for organic and specialty foods is steadily expanding, making it a great time to start a food-based business that emphasizes quality and sustainability.
Whether you’re interested in crafting artisan cheese, native fruit preserves, or plant-based snacks, the key is to offer something unique. Use locally sourced ingredients when possible, and share the story behind your product. Compliance with food safety standards is a must, especially if you’re considering export.
6. Green Energy Solutions
New Zealand has set an ambitious goal to use 100% renewable electricity by 2030. With a strong foundation already in place, mainly from hydro, wind, and geothermal energy, the push toward greener living continues.
There’s a growing need for businesses that offer solar panel installation, home energy audits, or off-grid power solutions. If you can provide energy-efficient services tailored to New Zealand’s unique geography and climate, you’ll find an eager audience. Whether helping a rural household go solar or advising a small business on reducing its carbon footprint, your work can contribute to the country’s clean energy goals.
7. Tech Startups
The tech scene in New Zealand is buzzing with innovation, from software development to AI applications. The government offers grants and support to encourage growth in this sector, and the demand for digital tools that solve everyday problems continues to climb.
If you have a background in tech, consider building a startup that addresses challenges in healthcare, education, or even agriculture. The ability to scale your solution globally can also attract investors and partners. Staying informed about international trends and local issues is key to creating a startup with real impact.
8. Arts, Crafts, and Creative Products
New Zealand’s creative industry plays a major role in the economy, contributing billions and supporting thousands of jobs. From handcrafted jewelry to traditional Māori designs, there’s strong local and global demand for authentic, handmade items.
If you're skilled in a craft, turning your hobby into a business is a great way to share your passion. Tourists and locals alike are drawn to products with a story. Use online platforms to showcase your work, attend local markets, and consider partnerships with Māori and Pacific Islander artisans to ensure cultural respect and authenticity. Building a brand rooted in local culture can set you apart in the creative market.
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She remains focused amid several early exits of top seeds
Top seed Aryna Sabalenka beat Marie Bouzkova 7-6(4), 6-4 to move into the third round.
She faced stiff resistance in the first set, dropping serve once and needing a tiebreak to secure it.
Sabalenka capitalised on errors from Bouzkova and secured a key break in the second set.
She remains focused amid several early exits of top seeds, including Coco Gauff and Jessica Pegula.
Sabalenka, a two-time semi-finalist, now faces either Emma Raducanu or defending champion Marketa Vondrousova
Aryna Sabalenka was given a tougher workout than she would have wanted before the top seed dismantled Czech Marie Bouzkova 7-6(4) 6-4 to advance to the third round of Wimbledon on Wednesday.
As the sun played hide-and-seek with the grey clouds that hovered over Centre Court, Sabalenka kept knocking on the door in the opening set, but was shut out by Bouzkova each time and dropped serve with a double fault in the 11th game.
A frustrated Sabalenka let out a scream when she failed to convert a breakpoint in the next game, but the 27-year-old quickly composed herself to force a tiebreak with a backhand winner on her next opportunity.
"That was a tough moment in the match," Sabalenka said.
"I was just trying to put the ball back on that side and then hope that I'd be able to break her back, because until that point, my returns weren't great enough to break her serve and I'm really glad everything clicked.
"I felt a bit better in that moment and I think that's why I was able to win the tiebreak and get the win in straight sets."
The three-times Grand Slam champion from Belarus, who has a golden opportunity to win her first Wimbledon title with several seeds losing early, led the tiebreak after a couple of errors from Bouzkova and wrapped up the set with a forehand winner.
An untimely error at the net by Bouzkova gifted Sabalenka the break in the fifth game of the second set and there was no looking back from there with the twice semi-finalist holding firm to close out the win.
Sabalenka said she was focused on avoiding the trapdoor after second seed Coco Gauff, number three Jessica Pegula, fifth seed Zheng Qinwen and number nine Paula Badosa were all sent packing in the first round.
"Honestly, it's very sad to see so many top players losing in the first round, but you're better off focusing on yourself and staying away from the results," Sabalenka added.
"Of course, you're going to know the overall picture, but it's better just to take it one step at a time and do your best every time you're out here competing.
"I hope there are no more upsets in this tournament."
Up next for Sabalenka is either local favourite Emma Raducanu or 2023 champion Marketa Vondrousova.
Reuters
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Starmer and Reeves during a visit to Horiba Mira in Nuneaton, to mark the launch of the Government's Industrial Strategy on June 23, 2025 in Nuneaton. (Photo: Getty Images)
PRIME MINISTER Keir Starmer on Wednesday said that Chancellor Rachel Reeves would remain in her role for “a very long time to come”, after she appeared visibly upset in parliament as questions were raised about her future.
Reeves was seen with tears rolling down her face during Prime Minister’s Questions, after Starmer did not confirm whether she would remain chancellor until the next general election, expected in 2029.
The moment came after the Labour government reversed its position on key welfare spending cuts, removing a multibillion-pound saving from the public finances and prompting speculation about Reeves’s position in the cabinet.
Following the incident, the pound dropped by more than one per cent against the dollar, and the London stock market also declined.
'The Chancellor is going nowhere'
A spokeswoman for Starmer told reporters later that Reeves had the Prime Minister’s “full backing”. A spokesman for Reeves said she had been upset due to a “personal matter”.
“The Chancellor is going nowhere. She has the Prime Minister’s full backing,” said Starmer’s press secretary.
When asked why Starmer had not voiced support for Reeves in the Commons, the spokeswoman said: “He has done so repeatedly.”
She added: “The Chancellor and the Prime Minister are focused entirely on delivering for working people.”
In a later interview with the BBC, Starmer said Reeves had done “an excellent job as chancellor” and would stay in the role “for a very long time to come”.
He said the tears had “nothing to do with politics” and described suggestions to the contrary as “absolutely wrong”.
Reeves to continue work from Downing Street
Asked about why Reeves was upset, her spokesman said: “It’s a personal matter, which, as you would expect, we are not going to get into.”
He added: “The Chancellor will be working out of Downing Street this afternoon.”
Starmer reversed the government’s welfare spending plan on Tuesday following a rebellion from Labour MPs, in what has been seen as a significant blow to his authority.
The decision to drop the cuts has left a gap of nearly £5 billion in Reeves’s fiscal plans, raising the prospect that she may have to increase taxes on “working people”—something she has said she would not do.
She has also ruled out changing her position that day-to-day spending must be funded by tax receipts rather than borrowing.